How to Manage Remote Working Teams?

With many workplaces embracing hybrid as the new normal, remote work continues to pose challenges for both managers and employees. To make hybrid workplaces more efficient, managers and leaders need to ensure that teams stay productive and motivated, and most importantly, connected with your company's mission.

Managing a remote team requires embracing change and staying flexible. In many cases, the key is to address challenges before they snowball and ensure that communication lines remain open between team members. 

Here are some challenges you might face with managing a remote team and tips to handle them:

Confusion

Messages on email and Slack can sometimes be unclear. Remote employees might get confused about tasks and expectations, and not everyone is comfortable asking for help. Regular check-ins and clear instructions can help clear up confusion.

Different Work Styles

Your team members might be in different time zones and life stages. Some may be fresh grads, while others might have kids at home. Be flexible with schedules and understand that everyone has their work preferences.

Communication

Everyone has their preferred way of communicating. Instead of forcing one method, offer different options to suit everyone's style. This way, everyone can stay connected in the best way for them.

Burnout

Remote workers can easily burn out without clear boundaries between work and personal time. They might start early, work all day, and keep going into the evening. Set clear guidelines and encourage breaks to help them maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Managing a remote team takes time and patience. It's a process of trial and error. Here are some tips that can help you manage a remote team more effectively:

1. Set Clear Expectations

Lay down some ground rules for your remote team. Be flexible but make sure everyone knows what's expected:

• Team Meetings: Schedule meetings at times that work for everyone's time zones.
• Communication: Choose which channels to use for different types of messages. For example, use email for assignments and Slack for casual chats.
• Workflows: Create workflows to keep everyone on track, even when communication isn't perfect.

2. Create Accountability

Give your team members autonomy, but hold them accountable for their tasks. Set clear goals and have regular check-ins to discuss progress and obstacles or challenges.

3. Provide the Right Tools

Equip your team with the necessary tools and hardware. Ensure everyone has a good computer suited to their role. Here are some useful tools for remote work:

• Asana: Project management
• Figma: Design and Collaboration
• Slack: Team messaging
• Google Drive: File storage and sharing
• Zoom: Video conferencing
• Invision: Design collaboration
• GitHub: Software development
• LastPass: Password management

4. Respect Time Zones

Be mindful of your team's time zones and avoid scheduling meetings at inconvenient times. Use scheduling features to send messages during your team's working hours.

5. Focus on Output, Not Hours

Avoid micromanaging. Focus on the results rather than the hours worked. It's not about being online for 8 hours a day--it's about getting the job done. If your team is meeting goals and delivering good results, don't stress about their working hours.

6. Allow for Flexibility

Encourage flexibility with your remote workers. While you need some rules and overlapping schedules for meetings, avoid unnecessary restrictions. If an employee likes to take a 1-hour run in the afternoon but starts early to get their work done, that's okay. Similarly, if a parent needs to leave during the day for school drop-offs, make it stress-free. The more freedom you offer, the more likely they’ll care and contribute to your company.

7. Chat (Just Chat)

Create a remote-friendly environment where employees can chat casually. Encourage social interactions through regular video meetings or a Slack channel for sharing funny GIFs and weekend plans.

8. Be Inclusive

In a hybrid environment, ensure all employees feel included, whether in the office or on a video call. Pause meetings to give remote workers time to add feedback or actively monitor the group chat during larger meetings. Some employees might prefer typing in the chat over speaking out loud.

9. Do Virtual Team-Building

You don’t need to wait for in-person meetings to build teamwork. There are plenty of ways to foster collaboration remotely, such as:

• Online office games
• Team cooking classes
• Fireside chats
• Lunch and learns
• Baking contests
• Virtual escape rooms
• Pictionary
• Photo contests
• GIF battles

10. Provide Regular Recognition

Celebrate team wins, both big and small. Recognizing achievements helps break the monotony of remote work. Create performance awards or celebrate milestones. When an employee goes above and beyond, acknowledge it in broader meetings so they receive recognition from other teams and executives. Make work anniversaries feel special.

11. Train Your Team

Remote work can be new for many people. Provide training to help your team learn how to collaborate online and set healthy work boundaries. Consider bringing in experts to share practical tips on remote work.

12. Prepare for Tech Issues

Technical problems are a part of all work, but they can be a nuisance if you work remotely. From internet issues to malfunctioning apps, things can go wrong. Work with your IT team to find solutions, but don’t let these problems disrupt your work.

13. Ask for Feedback

Find out what’s working and what isn’t by asking your team about their challenges. Use one-on-ones or team meetings to gather their input. If you’re not getting enough feedback, consider using anonymous surveys.

14. Watch for Burnout

Look for signs of burnout, such as late arrivals to meetings or reduced performance. Offer support and encourage your team to take breaks if needed. Addressing burnout early can help maintain productivity and improve employee retention.

15. Remove Roadblocks

Help your team address any obstacles they face, whether it’s slow responses from other departments or other issues. Work to remove these roadblocks to make their work easier.

Managing a remote team takes time and effort. By training your team, preparing for tech issues, seeking feedback, supporting your team, and removing obstacles, you can improve the remote work experience for everyone.